Monitoring large-scale power distribution grids

Abstract

Power grids are distributed over vast geographical areas and have sophisticated multilayered architecture. The structure of the grid distribution layer is often poorly documented and sometimes unknown, presenting additional challenges to the development of systems for automated monitoring of power delivery to consumers.The proposed system performs the simultaneous functions of estimating the power grid topology (map) and monitoring of the grid operation. The core of the system is the distributed network of sensors installed at the branching points of electrical conductors. The sensors periodically measure the RMS current in the conductor, and the phase shift between current and voltage. Localization and time synchronization of sensors are performed using GPS modules. The sensors communicate over the powerline conductor. Transformers block communication signals, separating the network into clusters. The maps of the grid segments are reconstructed for each network cluster and then combined into the full grid map. The map is used for real-time monitoring of inconsistencies in the grid behavior to detect conductor breakage, powerline overload and possibly electricity theft. The autonomous sensors are inductively powered; auxiliary solar cells are installed as backup power source.